Deejay Farm Bloghttp://coconutfarmers.com
Tue, 24 Jan 2017 05:58:20 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.4.14Why coconut oil is the best vegetable oil!http://coconutfarmers.com/why-coconut-oil-is-the-best-vegetable-oil/
Tue, 24 Jan 2017 05:58:20 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=251Health is wealth. Additionally, having a healthy body can make people have fewer worries and be happy in life. If you are somebody who thinks the same way, you should beware of cooking oils with canola, sunflower, safflower, soy, or corn as a base.

Don’t believe it when people say that these cooking oils are good for your health. On the contrary, as soon as these oils are heated, their antioxidants quickly turn into harmful toxins. The safest alternative is virgin coconut oil, a kind of oil that is now recommended by health experts.

What is virgin coconut oil and what are its benefits?

In previous years, coconut oil was regarded to be dangerous, but now, this oil extracted from matured coconut fruits are hailed by health experts here and abroad. Primarily, experts are saying that this oil does not have the capacity to react with heat and produce harmful chemicals. Said in another way, this oil does not undergo oxidation damage.

Coconut oil has MCFAs (or medium-chained fatty acids) which are usually in a form that can be easily absorbed and digested by the human body. On the other hand, long-chained fatty acids coming from vegetable oils (such as those mentioned above) have larger molecules, which is why they cause more toxicity in the body.

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a substance that is converted to monolaurin. Monolaurin has powerful antiprotozoal, antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Choosing high-grade virgin coconut oil

Remember, there are different ways of preparing virgin coconut oil so check that out before purchasing. Most of what is available in the market are made from dried coconut meat or copra. Coconut oil from copra is cheap, but it can be unsanitary and unfit for consumption. Furthermore, some manufacturers of copra coconut oil use dangerous preparation processes such as refining, bleaching and deodorizing. These processes actually diminish the nutrient content of the coconut meat.

Look for coconut oil products that have gone through the most natural manufacturing processes. Choose coconut oils that are sourced directly from fresh coconut fruits and processed using refrigeration. Cooling coconut meat does not require the use of additives, preservatives and other harmful manufacturing chemicals.

Other healthy parts of coconut fruits

If you have a chance to grab a coconut fruit, make sure that you take advantage of all its edible parts. All of them are sources of nutrients.

Coconut water is full of electrolytes while coconut cream is a good source of good cholesterols. Coconut cream is a common ingredient of soups, rice-based desserts, curries and other Asian delicacies.

Virgin coconut oil and the edible parts of coconut fruits should be incorporated into your diet. You’ll be amazed at how much it can help you keep your body in shape while enjoying the peace with the knowledge that it won’t do you any harm.

]]>Eight great ways to enjoy coconut and coconut oilhttp://coconutfarmers.com/eight-great-ways-to-enjoy-coconut-and-coconut-oil/
Mon, 16 Jan 2017 06:52:05 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=248The whole issue of saturated fat dangers is falling apart gradually, although there are still many diet and medical experts still inside its crumbling edifice. The fact is unprocessed saturated fats are necessary for good health.

Our brain cells and nervous system’s myelin sheath to transmit nerve signals are fatty. Fat is a structural component of our cell walls. Without cholesterol in our skin, converting sunlight into vitamin D3 would not occur.

The plaque of interior artery walls is actually caused by inflammation from trans-fatty hydrogenated cooking or salad oils, an imbalance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and/or calcium build-ups (calcification) from free floating calcium in the blood not getting into bones due to vitamin K deficiencies. (http://www.naturalnews.com)

Most of the “science” against coconut oil was based on heat-processed hydrogenated coconut oil. That’s like saying milk is unhealthy after using only Big Ag pasteurized dairy from poorly treated and fed cows poisoned with antibiotics and growth hormones.

Now that the cholesterol and saturated fat misinformation is fading, everyone can enjoy the liberal use of healthy saturated fats. One of the healthiest saturated fats is coconut oil. Organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil is the healthiest choice.

It tends to turn into a liquid at warmer room temperatures, so you may have to refrigerate it for short periods if you want to scoop it onto other foods or simply take it directly. There are other forms of coconut to consider as well.

Coconut products’ benefits

Organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil that’s not processed is the only coconut oil you should use for non-cooking situations. It contains medium chain triglycerides (MCT). They are converted into energy, not fat, by the liver.

This process creates ketones, which the brain can use for energy despite metabolic obstructions.

A doctor in Florida used coconut oil successfully to reverse her husband’s late stage Alzheimer’s disease, so it certainly can help early phases of Alzheimer’s. (http://www.naturalnews.com/030373_coconut_oil_Alzheimers_disease.html)

Additionally, there are many reports of improved digestion and increased energy from ingesting coconut oil or water.

Various methods for using coconut oil and other forms of coconut

(1) You can add a spoonful or two into your cereal or in the smoothie of your choice, excellent applications if you can’t handle the taste of coconut oil directly. Coconut oil can be an integral part of your smoothie creations.

(2) Coconut water has become the sports drink of choice for health conscious athletes and those who work out strenuously. Pro tennis player John Isner uses coconut water, and he won Wimbledon with an 11 hour match.

He claims coconut water is very hydrating and keeps the cramps away regardless of the heat and humidity.

(3) Coconut oil has a low smoke temperature. So it’s not the choice for high heat cooking. But it’s excellent for sauteing veggies at low heat. If you like Thai cuisine, coconut cooking and a few peanuts will put you there.

(4) Want to get that old-time movie theater popcorn taste? You can use a slightly lesser grade of coconut oil to pop your organic popping corn. Here’s how (http://www.ehow.com/how_7694088_cook-popcorn-coconut-oil.html). Movie theaters used hydrogenated coconut oil, the unhealthiest choice.

(5) You can make coconut milk with organic, unsweetened shredded coconut and purified water. Elana explains how: (http://www.elanaspantry.com/diy-coconut-milk/). Shredded coconut can be added to yogurt or cereal for healthy flavoring.

When using coconut flour for specific recipes, it’s important to dip and scoop small amounts into the measuring cup instead of pouring directly from the bag. Coconut flour is so fine it won’t measure properly if you just pour.

A quarter cup should weigh one ounce, for example. Then let Elana show you what you can make with several of her tasty recipes. (http://www.elanaspantry.com/tag/coconut-flour/)

(7) Avoid aluminum underarm deodorants and pricy, safe alternatives by making your own with coconut oil. Take a quarter cup of coconut oil, slowly melt it if solid; mix it with approximately two tablespoons each of baking soda and corn starch or arrowroot powder if organic (non-GMO) cornstarch is not available.

You can add one or two dozen drops of your favorite essential oil for scent. Place the mixture in a glass container. Occasionally, skin irritation can signal holding back a little on one of the powders or the oil. There seems to be fewer problems with arrowroot powder than corn starch.

(8) High quality coconut oil is excellent as a skin moisturizer or lotion. It can actually help heal psoriasis, dermatitis, or eczema. It can also serve as a base for facial treatments or as a hair conditioner.

Coconut oil is loaded with antioxidants to help keep your skin from aging too rapidly.

]]>Shed those unwanted pounds with all-natural coconut oilhttp://coconutfarmers.com/shed-those-unwanted-pounds-with-all-natural-coconut-oil/
Tue, 10 Jan 2017 05:34:57 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=245It might seem contradictory to everything that’s been said over the past 50 years about health, but one of the best ways to keep from getting fat is actually to eat more fat. One of the most powerful fat-burning foods, in fact, is the fat of coconut, known more popularly as coconut oil, which helps sustain blood sugar levels throughout the day and boost metabolism.

The key to coconut oil’s fat-burning potential is its high content of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), a type of saturated fat that is processed by the liver and quickly turned into energy. As compared to long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs), MCFAs impose a greater satiating effect, meaning they make you feel fuller much more quickly.

According to a 2002 study published in The Journal of Nutrition, MCFAs not only increase energy expenditure but also help promote healthy weight control when consumed in placed of LCFAs. In other words, replacing unhealthy vegetable oils from things like soy and canola with coconut oil can have a profound effect on energy, blood sugar and, ultimately, weight control.

Consuming this important dietary fat triggers the release of a satiety hormone known as cholecystokinin, or CCK, which modulates hunger and helps minimize cravings for sugar and processed carbohydrates, both of which lead to obesity. The saturated fats in coconut oil also help control the metabolism of carbohydrates, regulating their conversion into stored body fat.

Coconut oil is also a powerful anti-inflammatory food rich in both lauric and capric acid, two specific fatty acids in the chain with demonstrated antiviral, antibacterial and antiprotozoal properties. It can help increase the bioavailability of nutrients found in other foods while simultaneously buffering the conversion of carbohydrates into body fat.

“Human studies have shown that replacing the more common dietary long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) for Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) leads to increased energy expenditure and fat oxidation resulting in body adipose tissue loss,” reads a 2003 paper published in the International Journal of Obesity.

Why you need fat to absorb other nutrients

The problem with low-fat and non-fat foods is that they are typically loaded with refined sugar and flavoring additives that make up for the loss of taste and satiety otherwise present due to fat. These additives have been shown to spike blood sugar levels and trigger an inflammatory response that can lead to metabolic disorders and heart disease.

But besides just the flavor and fullness aspect, dietary fats like the kind found in coconut oil and palm kernel oil are absolutely essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D. Not only do saturated fats increase the bioavailability of these nutrients, but they also aid in various other important biological functions such as lipogenesis, the conversion of simple sugars into fatty acids and hormone production.

“Fats as part of a meal slow down absorption so that we can go longer without feeling hungry,” explains the Weston A. Price Foundation, a major proponent of dietary fats. “In addition, they act as carriers for important fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Dietary fats are needed for the conversion of carotene to vitamin A, for mineral absorption and for a host of other processes.”

According to The Healthy Home Economist, the ideal time to consume coconut oil is 20 minutes before each meal. Individuals weighing between 90 and 130 pounds should consume 1 tablespoon before each meal, for a total of 3 tbsp daily, while those between 131 and 180 pounds should consume 1.5 tbsp before each meal, for a total of 4.5 tbsp daily.

Those weighing over 180 pounds should take 2 tbsp of coconut oil before each meal, or 6 tbsp daily.

]]>Aloe Vera and Coconut oil: to treat acnehttp://coconutfarmers.com/aloe-vera-and-coconut-oil-to-treat-acne/
Tue, 03 Jan 2017 04:33:56 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=243According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States, affecting an estimated 40 to 50 million people across the nation. While acne usually begins in puberty, this unpleasant inflammatory condition — which manifests as pimples, lumps and plugged pores across the body, especially the face and back — is not restricted to a specific age group, and can occur at any time. In fact, almost 85 percent of people will suffer from acne at some point in their lives.

Given how widespread acne is in today’s society, it isn’t surprising that acne treatment is a billion dollar industry for Big Pharma. However, most commercial acne creams are packed with unnatural and aggressive chemicals, making them an unacceptable choice for health-minded individuals. Fortunately, two foods found in nature — aloe vera and coconut oil — are proven to treat acne effectively and without side effects.

Aloe vera

There’s a good reason why aloe vera is found in so many cosmetic products: this succulent and mucilaginous plant, which is characterized by its green, spear-shaped leaves, is well-known for its ability to heal, soothe and rejuvenate the skin. Indeed, virtually all cultures that had contact with aloe vera came to recognize its significant skin-boosting properties over time, and it remains a popular natural remedy for treating skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis, burns and rashes.

However, a recent study published in The Journal of Dermatological Treatment has discovered that aloe vera is also effective at treating acne. For the study, the researchers assembled a group of 60 subjects suffering from mild to moderate acne and, over an eight-week trial period, treated them with a formulation of either tretinoin cream and aloe vera topical gel or tretinoin cream and a placebo. At the end of the trial, the results were undeniable: “The combination TR/AVG was well tolerated and significantly more effective than TR and [the placebo] for the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris.”

To use aloe vera for acne, simply apply some aloe vera gel onto the affected area daily. The gel will improve the swelling, redness and inflammation associated with acne, and also prevent future outbreaks.

Coconut oil

Like aloe vera, coconut oil is beloved for its skin-boosting properties, and is used throughout the world as an anti-aging cream, natural sunblock, lip gel, moisturizer and massage oil. It is also effective at treating skin disorders, and is shown to combat blisters, pimples, sores, rashes and more.

In fact, there doesn’t seem to be any skin condition that coconut oil can’t at least improve, at that’s also true of acne. In 2009, Chinese researchers found that the main saturated fatty acid in coconut oil, lauric acid, possessed even stronger antibacterial activity against acne than palmitic acid or oleic acid. Furthermore, lauric acid loaded with liposomes (vesicles that can administer nutrients) was shown to “fuse with the membranes of P. acnes and release the carried [lauric acid] directly into the bacterial membranes, thereby killing the bacteria effectively.”

These results, which were published in the journal Biomaterials, suggest that the topical application of coconut oil can treat acne effectively. For maximum benefits, choose raw coconut oil made that is organic, cold-pressed and extra virgin. This kind of oil will actually smell of coconut, signifying minimal processing.

]]>Meal planning for a ketogenic diethttp://coconutfarmers.com/meal-planning-for-a-ketogenic-diet/
Thu, 22 Dec 2016 05:26:05 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=240There is a growing segment of the natural health movement that endorses the ketogenic diet as the best nutritional approach. The biggest challenge that people have is navigating how to set up meals to maintain ketosis.

When meal planning on a ketogenic diet, you will have to take into account your unique metabolism. Some people do great with intermittent fasting where they go 16-18 hours without a calorie source. Other individuals who have adrenal fatigue may need to eat every four hours or so to maintain stable blood sugar and elevate ketones appropriately.

What do you eat for breakfast?

If you are a coffee drinker, I recommend using an organic, mold-free coffee and putting 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 2 teaspoons of pastured butter in it. This combines the benefits of the caffeine and antioxidants in the coffee with the medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs) in the coconut oil and butter. These MCTs go right to the liver, where they are converted to ketones and used for energy.

You could make something similar with raw cacao and make a hot chocolate or chocolate milk depending on what season it is and what you would like. The chocolate milk could use organic coconut milk (full-fat) which is very creamy and provides the same MCTs as the coconut oil.

How about some real solid foods?

You could also cook some pastured eggs in coconut oil. This is a little more challenging on the digestive system than the drinks above, but it provides more quality nutrients, as the eggs have tons of choline and carotenoid antioxidants. You could throw some non-starchy veggies in with the eggs and put some olive oil on top for more beneficial fats.

Finally, you could make a protein shake with full-fat organic coconut milk, or organic almond milk with 2 tbsp of coconut oil added. You would have a small amount of frozen, organic berries and about 15-20 grams of a quality, low-carb protein powder. The protein could be a hemp, pea, brown rice or non-denatured whey source. Be sure not to put too much berries or protein in it.

How about lunch:

Lunch could be a number of things such as a creamy guacamole with coconut milk, lemon, apple cider vinegar (ACV) and herbs. You can serve this with flax crackers or with kale chips, red cabbage, celery, cucumbers, etc. You could also have a big salad (without tomatoes or fruit) with diced avocado, freshly squeezed lemon, extra-virgin olive oil and herbs.

During the wintertime, you may want to have some bone broth stew with grass-fed beef bones and meat or pastured chicken bones and meat. Load it up with non-starchy veggies, and you have an incredibly nutrient-dense, easy-to-digest meal.

You could also have a nice performance-enhancing treat such as a coconut cacao butter ball. This is a combination of coconut oil/butter, raw cacao and stevia for flavor. This is high in good MCT’s and antioxidants from the raw cacao.

]]>Coconut oil – miraculously helps Parkinson’s patient regain quality of lifehttp://coconutfarmers.com/coconut-oil-miraculously-helps-parkinsons-patient-regain-quality-of-life/
Wed, 14 Dec 2016 04:32:24 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=235Imagine for a moment that you are a 74-year-old man diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and you are quickly losing your ability to think, move and function, despite adhering to an intense regimen of all the latest pharmaceutical offerings for this miserable disease. Then imagine that nearly all of your symptoms subside almost miraculously after beginning a dietary routine that involves taking large doses of all-natural coconut oil every day.

Would you not tell the world about your amazing healing experience and encourage others in similar situations to do the same thing for their own health? This is what one older man did recently when he shared his powerful story on HealthUnlocked.com, a question and answer support forum for people suffering from all sorts of illnesses and health conditions.

When drugs failed him, man adopted coconut oil regimen that changed his life

In a forum posting entitled “Coconut oil has improved my life,” the man, who identifies himself by the handle “fwes,” explains how his quality of life deteriorated quite rapidly after agreeing to undergo conventional treatment for Parkinson’s at the renowned Mayo Clinic. He explains how he had been taking drugs like Mirapex Er (pramipexole dihydrochloride), Azilect (rasagiline) and Sinemet (Carbidopa/Levodopa) to no avail.

His symptoms reportedly worsened on these drugs, leaving him in a state of catatonic pain and immobility. He describes his symptoms as including severe slowness, distorted facial expressions, chronic stiffness and joint pain, unsteadiness, severe swelling on his left leg and extreme lower back pain. These and many other symptoms are characteristic of late-stage Parkinson’s, and eventually lead to a total inability to take care of one’s self.

After three-and-a-half excruciating years of taking these multiple drugs for his condition and seeing no improvements, the man decided to take matters into his own hands. Research he discovered over at CoconutKetones.com, the blog of Dr. Mary Newport, M.D., led him to start taking coconut oil every day and building himself up to a tolerance of eight tablespoons daily. And the results were astounding.

Drastic improvements observed after just a few days on coconut oil

According to his personal account, the man experienced “significant improvements” after just a couple of days on the coconut oil. Family and friends were both shocked and delighted that he was suddenly able to move around the house quickly, for instance, and rise from any chair unassisted. He was also able to start performing what he describes as “football agility drills,” or shifting right and left and moving forward and backward in response to commands.

]]>The amazing benefits of eating coconutshttp://coconutfarmers.com/the-amazing-benefits-of-eating-coconuts-2/
Wed, 07 Dec 2016 07:15:44 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=231Given the many times that experts have touted the benefits of consuming more fruits and vegetables, it should come as no surprise to learn that coconuts posses some amazing benefits. A tropical fruit that is a versatile as it is unusual, coconuts are now processed around the world to produce a number of products, including sugar, soap, milk, cosmetic products, butter, flour and the ever-popular, coconut oil. Given the popularity and widespread availability of these various products that utilize coconuts and their benefits, it can sometimes be easy to overlook these round, hard-skinned fruits in their more natural state.

Eating fresh coconuts, as a sizable portion of the world’s population does as part of their daily diet, according to the Coconut Research Center, reaps many benefits that people will find attractive. Just a few of these advantages are outlined below.

Improves functioning of the brain

Just one serving of the fresh, white, fragrant coconut meat provides a person with 17% of their daily supply of copper. This trace mineral is responsible for activating enzymes that then trigger neurotransmitter production. These neurotransmitters are responsible for transferring information from cell to cell. This finding shows great promise in keeping age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, at bay.

Manage weight

As the world’s people become heavier, obesity brings crushing health issues that are both short, and long, term. A study in the June 2006 issue of Ceylon Medical Journal found that a dietary fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) is found in abundant quantities in coconuts. MCTs are known to aid significantly in the loss of weight given the speed at which the human body can metabolize them. MCTs have also been shown to help curb hunger pangs more effectively than those long-chain triglycerides such as the ones found in dairy products and meats.

Improve cardiovascular health

Another way the MCTs in coconuts have been shown to improve health is in reducing the total amounts of cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. A study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition in October 2008 showed that volunteers who consumed MCTs as a part of a weight loss plan that was to last for four months showed a significant reduction in the amounts of harmful cholesterol levels in their blood.

Add fiber

Just one cup of coconut meat has been shown to contain seven grams of fiber, This is according to the USDA National Nutrient Database. Most people already know that fiber helps keep the intestinal tract healthy and guards against constipation; fiber also helps protect people from diabetes, boosts their immune systems, lower the LDL cholesterol levels in blood and reduce blood sugar levels.

Adding just a few cups of raw, natural coconut to the diet several times a week can reap huge benefits for people. From children to centenarians, coconuts provide health benefits that cannot be overlooked.

]]>Four reasons to love coconut oilhttp://coconutfarmers.com/four-reasons-to-love-coconut-oil/
Thu, 01 Dec 2016 07:41:43 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=218Few foods, with the possible exception of eggs, have had their reputations so completely demolished in the 20th century as coconut oil. Even as late as the 1990s, this edible oil, which is extracted from the kernels or flesh of matured coconuts, continued to be demonized in the media as a great contributor to heart disease due to its significant saturated fat content.

Fortunately, modern society is beginning to understand that the saturated fat present in coconut oil is, contrary to popular belief, actually highly beneficial. This understanding was, in part, due to a growing body of evidence suggesting that populations who consumed large quantities of coconut oil, such as the Tokelauan and Kitavan people of the South Pacific, were among the healthiest people on Earth. This evidence prompted a growing number of scientists to investigate the benefits of coconut oil.

Coconut oil is an unbeatable source of saturated fat

According to Self‘s “NutritionData,” one tablespoon of coconut oil contains 14 grams of total fat, of which 12 grams are saturated. Whereas the saturated fat found in most other foods, such as meat and cheese, is mostly comprised of long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), the saturated fat found in coconut oil is mostly comprised of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Unlike LCTs, which need to be broken down in the intestines before our bodies can use them as fuel, MCTs are metabolized extremely quickly and rarely stored in the body as fat cells. These MCTs are the source of all of the benefits listed below.

Coconut oil can reduce abdominal obesity

Due to its concentrations of MCTs, long-term consumption of coconut oil has actually been linked to weight loss, not weight gain. A Brazilian study published in Lipids in 2009, found that women who consumed 30 milliliters of coconut oil daily for a 12 week period experienced a reduction in BMI and waist circumference. A group of women who consumed equal amounts of soybean oil, which contains LCTs, during the same period did not experience the same benefits.

Reference link

]]>Coconut Oil and Alzheimer’s Disease: The News is Spreadinghttp://coconutfarmers.com/coconut-oil-and-alzheimers-disease-the-news-is-spreading/
Mon, 28 Dec 2015 11:26:40 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=200The Failure of the Medical System to Treat Alzheimer’s

The news about how effective coconut oil is in treating Alzheimer’s Disease is spreading fast, as the failure of drugs in treating Alzheimer’s are widely documented in the mainstream media. These reports document the failures of drug companies to develop an effective Alzheimer’s drug. Drug companies Pfizer and Medivation admitted last year that the new drug they were developing for Alzheimer’s, dimebon, not only did not help patients in trials, but made patients worse. The expensive drug had already reached phase III trials. (See story here on ABC News)

In May 2012 a federal judge ruled that a case against Harvard Medical School and its teaching hospitals regarding fraudulent research using public funds for Alzheimer’s disease was to proceed. (Read the story here)

Fortunately, there is more positive news for the prevention of Alzheimer’s and natural remedies, as it is widely believed now that Alzheimer’s is Type 3 diabetes, and can be prevented and treated much like Type 2 diabetes through lifestyle and diet choices.

The harm of low-fat high-carbohydrate diets in cholesterol uptake in the brain

One of the best recent studies that looked at the role of nutrition in Alzheimer’s was published in the European Journal of Internal Medicine: “Nutrition and Alzheimer’s disease: The detrimental role of a high carbohydrate diet”.

The authors of this study have noted how researchers have begun to direct their energies towards understanding the earlier stages of AD, since drug research in later stages has not been very successful. They note that several researchers have noticed a strong correlation between insulin resistance in the brain and early AD, suggesting that AD might be considered a neuroendocrine disorder of the brain or so-called “type 3 diabetes.” Other observations have noted an association of AD with mitochondrial dysfunction, which is also common in Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

But the authors’ main conclusions regarding the early causes of AD center around the transport of cholesterol from the blood stream to the brain. They state that there is mounting evidence which suggests that a defect in cholesterol metabolism in the brain may play an important role in AD. They give a nice summary of the brain’s dependency on cholesterol:

The brain represents only 2% of the body’s total mass, but contains 25% of the total cholesterol. Cholesterol is required everywhere in the brain as an antioxidant, an electrical insulator (in order to prevent ion leakage), as a structural scaffold for the neural network, and a functional component of all membranes. Cholesterol is also utilized in the wrapping and synaptic delivery of the neurotransmitters. It also plays an important role in the formation and functioning of synapses in the brain.

The authors go on to explain that the lipid theory of heart disease started by the work of Ancel Keys in the 1960s led to dietary beliefs that cholesterol was to be avoided in the diet, and with that belief came the “over-zealous prescription of cholesterol-reducing medications over the same decades in which there has been a parallel rise in AD prevalence.” Dr. Seneff, the lead author of this study, has addressed the issue of cholesterol-lowering statin drugs being a possible cause of Alzheimer’s in her article here: The Clue to Why Low Fat Diet and Statins may Cause Alzheimer’s

Another result of the low-fat dietary belief was the replacement of fats in the diet with refined carbohydrates, which leads to a rise in blood glucose levels and over time to insulin resistance and diabetes. They point out that the prevalence of fructose, mostly in the form of high fructose corn syrup, is ten times more reactive than glucose in inducing glycation (for a detailed discussion of this, see the video below: “5 Medical Doctors with Gary Taubes and Robb Wolf Discuss Coconut Oil and Alzheimer’s Disease”.) This impairs serum proteins, and they hypothesize that this leads to a depletion of much needed cholesterol and fat in the brain. Strong evidence in favor of their hypothesis is the fact that studies show patients with type-2 diabetes are at two to five times increased risk to AD.

Increased lipid peroxidation is also shown to be an early cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Liquid vegetable oils, the polyunsaturates, are highly prone to oxidation and rancidity, and it is now well known that in the form of trans fatty acids (through the process of hydrogenation) they are extremely toxic. (More research on polyunsaturated oils here.)

Dr. Raymond Peat has talked about the difference between polyunsaturated oils and saturated oils in their importance for brain tissue for years now:

Brain tissue is very rich in complex forms of fats. The experiment (around 1978) in which pregnant mice were given diets containing either coconut oil or unsaturated oil showed that brain development was superior in the young mice whose mothers ate coconut oil. Because coconut oil supports thyroid function, and thyroid governs brain development, including myelination, the result might simply reflect the difference between normal and hypothyroid individuals. However, in 1980, experimenters demonstrated that young rats fed milk containing soy oil incorporated the oil directly into their brain cells, and had structurally abnormal brain cells as a result. Lipid peroxidation occurs during seizures, and antioxidants such as vitamin E have some anti-seizure activity. Currently, lipid peroxidation is being found to be involved in the nerve cell degeneration of Alzheimer’s disease.

How Coconut Oil Can Help Alzheimer’s

Coconut oil, by contrast, is highly saturated, and in its natural unrefined form has a shelf life of more than 2 years. Unlike unsaturated oils, it is not prone to oxidation.

Also, the study from the European Journal of Internal Medicine referenced above notes that Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) all have an association with mitochondrial dysfunction. A study published in 2010 used coconut oil to show that a diet enriched in the saturated fatty acids of coconut oil offered strong advantages for the protection against oxidative stress in heart mitochondria.

Much research is also being uncovered now on the advantages of high HDL cholesterol levels, besides the study we mentioned above in direct relation to Alzheimer’s. A study appearing in the American Journal of Cardiology in February 2011 showed that the higher men’s HDL cholesterol levels, the longer they lived and the more likely it was that they would reach the age of 85. A diet with adequate amounts of saturated fat is essential to keeping HDL high cholesterol levels. Those with deficiencies and suffering from neurological disorders need to consider a diet that is high in saturated fat, in stark contrast to the mainstream dietary advice for low-fat diets that might be causing many of these late-in-life diseases.

Another major advantage the saturated fat of coconut oil provides is its ability to provide the brain with an alternate source of energy in ketones. Ketones are high energy fuels that nourish the brain. Our body can produce ketones from stored fat while fasting or in starvation, but they can also be produced by converting medium chain fatty acids in certain foods. Coconut oil is nature’s richest source of these medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). A study done in 2004 took MCTs from coconut oil and put them into a drink that was given to Alzheimer’s patients while a control group took a placebo. They observed significant increases in levels of the ketone body beta-hydroxybutyrate (beta-OHB) 90 minutes after treatment when cognitive tests were administered. Higher ketone values were associated with greater improvement in paragraph recall with MCT treatment relative to placebo across all subjects.

As coconut oil’s use becomes more accepted and widespread, and as people begin to realize the dangers of the low-fat dietary belief, we are starting to see more testimonies in relation to diseases like Alzheimer’s. One of the most widely published reports is from Dr. Mary Newport as reported by the St. Petersburg Times on October 29, 2008. Dr. Newport’s husband had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s and was watching her husband quickly deteriorate. After using drugs that slowed down the effects of Alzheimer’s, she looked into clinical drug trials and found one based on MCTs that not only slowed the progression of Alzheimer’s, but offered improvement. Not being able to get her husband into one of these trials, she began to give him Virgin Coconut Oil, and saw incredible improvement in his condition.

The coconut oil he’d ingested seemed to “lift the fog.” He began taking coconut oil every day, and by the fifth day, there was a tremendous improvement. “He would face the day bubbly, more like his old self,” his wife said. More than five months later, his tremors subsided, the visual disturbances that prevented him from reading disappeared, and he became more social and interested in those around him.

Read my commentary on this story regarding coconut oil and Alzhiemer’s from CBN here. While this is a great story showing how ketones and coconut oil can help with Alzheimer’s disease, it does not even address the whole issue of cholesterol uptake to the brain as I wrote about above. Dr. Newport admits that her husband Steve was taking statins (cholesterol lowering drugs) until she took him off of them in 2009, after studying the cholesterol issue. She stops short, however, in recommending that others suffering from Alzheimer’s do the same. Until the media and the general public wake up to the facts regarding all the serious side effects from cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, simply adding coconut oil to one’s diet might only have a minimal effect.

Carol Flett came across Dr. Newport’s research while praying for a solution to her husband’s worsening dementia. In her blog post Can God Use Facebook to Answer Prayers? she reports:

Within three or four hours after giving Bruce the first couple of tablespoons (of coconut oil) he was speaking in clear sentences again. He did have one relapse, shortly after starting, but it lasted only a day. After that he sprang right back and has been doing well ever since, taking care of many things himself that he hadn’t been able to do for a long time. The doctor came to see Bruce yesterday. He was amazed. He ordered another cognitive test, but he could see for himself that Bruce was much better. I told him about the answer to prayer. He believes in God. He didn’t scoff. He just said, “Keep doing what your doing because it’s is working.” I believe God can use whatever method he chooses. If He chooses to use part of his creation such as coconut oil, I won’t complain, and if He gives direction to His praying child through Facebook, that is His prerogative as well.

She has since posted a video of Bruce thanking people for praying for him, and explaining how his condition changed dramatically after taking coconut oil. He reports how he was diagnosed with dementia and could no longer care for himself, and that the doctors recommended that he be put in a nursing home. Watch and listen to him now:

Ian Blair tells us in this video how “Coconut oil gave me my brain back” after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s:

Dietary Advice for Alzheimer’s Sufferers

Coconut oil does offer hope as nature’s most abundant source of MCTs, and it is an easily convertible fuel source for ketones. In addition, it is one of nature’s richest sources of saturated fat which is needed to produce HDL cholesterol to feed the brain. People suffering from Alzheimer’s should immediately start avoiding polyunsaturated forms of oil such as soy and corn oils, especially if they are hydrogenated and in the form of trans fatty acids. These are prone to oxidation and potentially mitochondrial dysfunction. Other healthy fats would include butter from the milk of cows that are pastured and mostly grass-fed, and Omega 3 fatty acids from high quality fish oil, cod liver oil, or krill oil.

Refined carbohydrates in the form of refined wheat products and refined sugars should be strictly avoided! High protein foods such as eggs from pastured chickens (preferably fed a soy-free chicken feed), pastured poultry, and grass-fed meats are all desirable sources of fats and proteins for brain health.

]]>Coconut flour: What is it and how to best use it!http://coconutfarmers.com/coconut-flour-what-is-it-and-how-to-best-use-it/
http://coconutfarmers.com/coconut-flour-what-is-it-and-how-to-best-use-it/#respondMon, 16 Nov 2015 07:40:53 +0000http://coconutfarmers.com/?p=195Coconut has been traditionally cultivated for its raw coconut meat, oil, milk, water and most recently for its flour. The Philippines is now the largest coconut producing country and was the first to produce flour as a byproduct from its production of coconut milk (1, 2). The growing demand for the use of natural, non-toxic plants as medicinal aids to prevent and treat illness has highlighted the various health benefits of consuming coconut products.

Many researchers now recommend the addition of coconut flour to supplement any healthy diet because of its many benefits including its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Whether you are on a strict paleo diet, you’re seeking an allergy free flour source, or you simply desire to stimulate your digestive and immune system, coconut flour is an excellent addition to your meals and a pantry staple.

What is coconut flour?

Producers of coconut flour originally sold the nutritious coconut milk byproduct to farmers in the form of coconut meal. Farmers understood that coconut meal was an excellent source of organic fertilizer and an animal feed supplement. In the past few decades, as more research emerged supporting the numerous health benefits of coconut flour, human consumption of the valuable superfood also increased.

Coconut flour is derived from grating the meat of fresh coconuts. The meat is then dehydrated and defatted which means the oil is extracted. The result is a fine powder that looks and feels similar to wheat or grain flours. The most pure and organic form may even fool a seasoned foodie because of its lack of coconut flavor.

Coconut flour: A functional food

Coconut flour has different health benefits than other coconut products (such as the oil) and it offers a great alternative to conventional flour.

Considered a functional food, coconut flour exhibits properties that significantly benefit health and is a valuable source of nutrition. This functional food is a great source of dietary fiber, is high in protein, does not contain gluten, and has a low glycemic index.

Coconut flour is especially recommended for those with inflammatory issues that result when wheat or gluten is consumed. Coconut flour is safe for consumption by individuals with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, leaky gut syndrome, or diabetes.

Advice on how to use coconut flour

Despite the fact that coconut flour may look, feel and perhaps even smell like conventional refined flours, coconut flour can be frustrating and costly to cook with without some needed guidance. Don’t forget Dr. Fife’s description that coconut flour is like a sponge and cooking with such an absorbent food provides its own challenges to be overcome.

A few tips follow on how to achieve success in substituting 100% coconut flour in recipes for wheat flour:

Due to the high absorbency, coconut flour is an excellent thickening agent for soups, stews and even smoothies. For this reason, it is also recommended to store coconut flour in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to avoid moisture clumps.

Experiment! In general, for every one cup of traditional flour you only need approximately 1/4 cup to 1/3 a cup of coconut flour.

Recipes commonly include an additional protein source such as extra eggs or hemp powder to make up for the binding properties that gluten normally would provide. Flax seed is an excellent binder and contributes its own health benefits.